The Albanese Labor Government will invest $3 million towards a precinct renewal in the heart of Braidwood, boosting the town's liveability and visitor economy.
The project will support the construction of a new off-street car park nearby local cafes and tourist attractions, along with the installation of water and sewer infrastructure at an adjacent block - laying the foundations for future site development.
To be delivered by Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council, at least 25 car parking spaces will be installed behind 88 Wallace Street, along with at least one EV charging station, external lighting, CCTV, and solar panels on a canopy over the parking spaces.
This new car park will improve parking options for both locals and tourists seeking to experience everything Braidwood has to offer, uplifting the local economy.
Water and sewer services will be installed at 41A Ryrie Street - as part of the Government's commitment to supporting the future of this fast-growing community.
Access from Duncan Street to the north will be maintained through a laneway, with pedestrians to access the car park from Wallace Street through the former D&S Motors site.
Access to the rear of the shops and National Theatre will also be maintained via the laneway.
The redevelopment, fully funded under the Australian Government's Investing in our Communities Program, will commence next month, and is scheduled to be completed by July 2026.
Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council will undertake community consultation into the future on development opportunities at 41A Ryrie Street.
Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister, Catherine King:
"The Australian Government will work in partnership with Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council to deliver a much-needed new car park that enhances community amenity while promoting visitation to beautiful Braidwood.
"EV charging will also provide local and passing traffic with a reliable point to charge their vehicles, supporting reduced carbon emissions in an extra win for the region."
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain:
"Braidwood is a gateway to the coast, with more people than ever making their way through the town, but it's also a brilliant destination in its own right.
"From an iconic bakery, rare black truffles, boutiques and galleries - there's so many drawcards in Braidwood, which is why it was named the 'Top Small Town' in the Canberra Region Tourism Awards last year.
"Bringing more people into Braidwood and making the experience as easy and as accessible as possible is why I've worked hard to secure $3 million to fully fund this project.
"Construction will support local contractors and up to 10 jobs, with the new car park to make it easier for locals and visitors to enjoy everything Braidwood has to offer, and the enabling infrastructure to pave the way for future site development."
Quotes attributable to Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Mayor, Kenrick Winchester:
"We welcome this $3 million from the Albanese Government, because this high-priority project will have such a positive impact on Braidwood businesses and the local economy.
"The new car park will help with QPRC's tourism and economic development efforts to encourage passers-by to linger a little longer in Braidwood and to find the hidden gems the historic town has to offer.
"The redevelopment will make better use of this parcel of land in the centre of town, and with Braidwood fast-growing, installing water and sewage services is the first step in kickstarting options for future additional housing supply to meet future demand."
